Nichols (W) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nichols (W) is a privately owned dam located in Mulberry, Florida, specifically on an unnamed pond in Polk County.


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Summary

The dam serves primarily for tailings purposes, with a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. With a height of 100 feet and a hydraulic height of 95 feet, Nichols (W) boasts a storage capacity of up to 1152 acre-feet and a surface area of 58 acres. The dam features a controlled spillway type with a width of 64 feet, capable of discharging a maximum of 110 cubic feet per second.

Despite being privately owned, Nichols (W) is subject to state regulations and oversight, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures all in place. The dam is classified as an earth type structure, with a length of 6706 feet and a drainage area of 0.09 square miles. While the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," the risk management measures and emergency action plans for the dam are not fully disclosed. With its strategic location and significant capabilities, Nichols (W) stands as a key player in water resource management within the region, under the jurisdiction of the Jacksonville District.

In conclusion, Nichols (W) represents a crucial component of Florida's water infrastructure, providing essential storage capacity and flood control measures for the surrounding area. With its impressive structural specifications and state-regulated operations, this dam plays a vital role in maintaining water resources and safeguarding against potential hazards. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nichols (W) warrants continued attention and monitoring to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in water management efforts.

Dam Length

6706

Dam Height

100

River Or Stream

UNNAMED POND

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

58

Hydraulic Height

95

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

1152

Structural Height

105

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

105
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.